Other new design features compared with the standard Civic on which the Type R is based include a new front bumper that has been shaped to reduce
turbulence around the front wheels, a wide front splitter, flared wheel arches, which at the front allow
air in as
extra cooling for the engine, and larger front grilles, also for increased cooling.
The
air curtains cut into the front fenders to reduce
turbulence in the wheel wells, while the tall
air vents right behind the doors look cool while emphasizing the 500's
extra width.